Over the past four years Russ and I have visited with dozens of people who do wildlife conservation in Africa. They’re involved in rescue rehab, anti-poaching, human-wildlife-conflict, activism, and education. Some are young some older. Some very experienced and others not. Some are successful and others less so. As we have revisited and kept track of many of these dedicated people we’ve seen a few common factors. Three factors seem to be essential for sustained success in wildlife conservation in Africa. #1 – Create an effective team At the turn of the century I worked as a management consultant. My…

Each so different, yet each the same in their passion for Africa. They are wildlife heroes everyone should get to know. WATCH the VIDEO LISTEN to the AUDIO You ever hear about the efforts of the big wildlife conservation organizations? You ever wonder if your small donation really matters or makes a difference? We sure did. That’s one reason we travel Africa in our old Land Rover looking for the little guys and gals. Those amazing people that are on the ground saving one critter at a time. They are our heroes. For these people saving Africa’s wildlife a few dollars…

Namibia is home to the desert lions. Izak Smit loves to observe them and does everything he can to save the last of them. Izak Smit is a freelance pilot in Namibia. However, his passion to save the last of the desert lions is unmatched. I’ve not personally met Izak (hope to early in 2018.) I rarely report on people Russ and I haven’t personally visited. However, communicating with Izak online over the past year I feel we already have. When Izak posted this on Facebook I simply had to share it. (It’s Part 1 of 4) [Izak Smit and Inki…

The debate regarding legalizing the rhino horn trade has raged for a while now. It first raised its head as a solution to end the relentless poaching of rhino for their horn. Rhino horn, especially wild rhino horn, is highly prized in some Asian countries. For ages it was used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Some believed it would cure anything from cancer to the common cold. However, in recent years it has become more of a status symbol for the new rich. Owning a rhino horn is probably not unlike owning a Rolex watch in the western world. However, this…

Are we forgetting what over the centuries of time has made Africa, Africa? Is an opportunity to dance and teach wildlife conservation rekindling all this? Along our journey in search of people saving wildlife we find some amazing individuals. Some rescue orphaned babies, injured birds or illegal pets. Others step into harm’s way to protect rhino and elephant from brutal poachers. A select few address the complex predator conflict issue to save lions and cheetah from irate farmers. Then there are those who with great passion and vision inspire the next generation and create opportunities for them to experience wild…